Launch of Bangalore Blasters
On 13 August 2026, Navrathan Jewellers, the owners of the new Bangalore Blasters franchise, held a launch event in Bengaluru. The ceremony featured Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev, who delivered an inspiring pep talk, and IPL star Vaishak Vijaykumar, adding further cricketing pedigree. Team owners Mahendar Bafna and Vishal C, along with Jain Sports representative Ashish Jain, presented a customised Bangalore Blasters jersey to Kapil Dev.
Partnership with Jain Sports
Jain Sports was announced as a key partner of the Bangalore Blasters. Dr Chenraj Roychand, founder‑chairman of Jain Group and Chancellor of Jain deemed‑to‑be‑University, stated that the partnership would strengthen the vision of creating a meaningful sporting ecosystem and promote community participation through cricket.
Tournament Details
The Bangalore Blasters will represent Bengaluru in the inaugural JITO Premier League (JPL), JITO’s flagship community cricket tournament. The league’s first season will be staged at the CCC Cricket Ground in Colombo, Sri Lanka, running from 24 August to 5 September 2026, with the opening ceremony scheduled for 24 August.
Vision and Objectives
Mahendar Bafna emphasized that the franchise is more than a tournament entry; it is an opportunity to build a professionally managed, competitive, and values‑driven sporting property that embodies professionalism, teamwork, discipline, integrity and excellence both on and off the field. He highlighted a longer‑term ambition to make the Bangalore Blasters one of the most competitive and respected teams in the JPL while fostering community bonding.
Remarks from Key Figures
Kapil Dev, speaking as chief guest, underscored cricket’s power to unite people and praised the league’s focus on discipline, teamwork and sporting excellence. JITO Chairman Vicky Ostwal expressed excitement about new platforms that bring cricket closer to communities and affirmed confidence in the Bangalore Blasters’ competitive mindset.
About the JITO Premier League
The JITO Premier League is designed to bring together cricket enthusiasts, professionals and entrepreneurs, promoting fitness, discipline, sportsmanship, networking and brotherhood. The inaugural edition in Colombo aims to showcase cricketing talent from the JITO community and demonstrate that community sport can be driven with elite‑level professionalism and intensity.
Forward Outlook
With the launch complete, the Bangalore Blasters will travel to Colombo for the inaugural season, aiming to make a strong first impression and lay the foundation for a sustained, high‑performance sporting journey.